---
title: How to Write a Cover Letter
description: It is crucial to tailor your cover letter to each role you apply for. How to start? Consider the following guidelines when creating your cover letter.
image: https://blog.offtowork.co.uk/hubfs/woman-working-on-laptop-top-view_rji-coeul_thumbnail-full01.png
---
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- How to Write a Cover Letter
April 12th 2019
# How to Write a Cover Letter
---
by Brenda Chagollan Career Advice, Staffing and Recruitment Advice
When applying to a job, many adverts will ask for a cover letter, just as they ask for a CV. And **sometimes recruiters will look at your cover letter first**. Therefore, it is crucial to tailor your cover letter to each role you apply for.
A pro tip is to research the company and the role you are applying for. This will help you decide which of your skills and experience to focus on.
**So where do you start? Consider the following guidelines when creating your cover letter.**
**1. HIGHLIGHT YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE**
- The main point of your cover letter is to highlight what you can contribute to the role and to the company.
- Highlight your most relevant skills and experience. You should be able to provide evidence of how you have used the skills mentioned *and results you've achieved.*
- Describe a situation where you used a specific skill and underline the positive results of your efforts.
- Aim to use the same tone as the company's website and the job advert.
**2. TIPS TO STRUCTURE YOUR COVER LETTER**
- If any contact details are provided, address your cover letter to the named individual to make it more personal. If not, you can use 'Dear Sir/Madam'.
- The first paragraph is where you should state which role you are applying for and the name of the company. You can include a distinct compliment about the company to demonstrate you have done some research.
- The next two paragraphs should reveal that you have the skills and experience needed for the role. **(Remember to give evidence).**
- Finally, you should conclude with one or two sentences stating why you are appropriate for the role.
- Direct them to any additional information, and ask them to contact you for any further information.
**3. WATCH OUT**
- If the advert mentions a start date, you could state that you are available from that date, or immediately, if that is your case.
- Include your name, email and contact number. (People do forget to give their contact details, no joke).
- Your letter should only cover a single page. Generally, your letter should be around **300 - 400 words.**
**Now that your cover letter is all set, do you want to polish your CV?**
**[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4930056/841749fe-efa4-44e5-9c63-8fd1fa1a9871)**
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